This timeless treat traces its origins to Franklin where home bakers have cherished its nutty sweetness for generations. We love how its moist texture and rich flavor make every bite unforgettable.
Its combination of toasted nuts and warm spices fills our kitchen with a cozy aroma that brings everyone together. We’re excited to share our version and we know you’ll fall in love at first bite.
So let’s gather our ingredients and honor this beloved tradition. We promise it’s worth every delicious crumb.
Franklin Nut Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup chopped pecans toasted
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350 F
- Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter then set it aside
- Whisk the flour baking powder ground cinnamon and salt until blended
- Beat the sugar and softened butter until fluffy
- Add the eggs one at a time then mix until smooth
- Stir in the milk
- Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture
- Stir in the chopped nuts until they are evenly distributed
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface
- Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
| Baking Temperature | Approximate Bake Time |
|---|---|
| 350 F | 45 to 50 minutes |
We love how our Franklin Nut Cake develops a moist crumb and nutty sweetness that make it a satisfying homemade dessert. We allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack. Then we slice and enjoy its warm aroma with our favorite beverage.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 and 1/2 cups toasted pecans chopped
- We sift the flour to keep our Franklin Nut Cake light and moist
- We cream the sugar with softened butter until smooth
- We beat in each egg one by one so the batter stays lump-free
- We add milk gradually to maintain an even texture
- We fold in toasted pecans to spread that bold nutty flavor throughout the batter
Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large mixing bowl | Keeps sifted dry ingredients contained |
| Medium mixing bowl | Allows us to blend wet elements into a cohesive mixture |
| Hand mixer or stand mixer | Ensures efficient beating to incorporate air and avoid lumps |
| Rubber spatula | Scrapes the sides of the bowl to combine batter fully |
| 9-inch bundt pan | Provides even baking and easy slicing for our Franklin Nut Cake |
| Cooling rack | Permits thorough airflow so the cake settles without moisture buildup |
| Measuring cups | Helps us measure flour and milk with precision |
| Measuring spoons | Ensures accurate portions of sugar and spices |
Prep
We set up our workspace. We gather all our ingredients and tools for smooth progress.
Measure And Prepare Nuts
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Toasted Pecans | 1 1/2 cups |
We measure out these nuts to maintain accuracy. We place them on a sturdy cutting board and chop them into even pieces. We keep them nearby for a quick transition into our Franklin Nut Cake batter.
Preheat The Oven
We set our oven to 350°F so it reaches the right temperature in time. We lightly grease our 9-inch bundt pan with butter or nonstick spray. We ensure all surfaces are coated to prevent sticking.
Mixing The Batter
We want our Franklin Nut Cake to have a moist crumb. Every element should come together smoothly for maximum flavor.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl we cream the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar until airy. We add the eggs one at a time. We pour the milk slowly to keep the mixture cohesive.
| Step | Recommended Mixing Time |
|---|---|
| Cream butter and sugar | 2 to 3 minutes |
| Add each egg | 1 minute per egg |
| Pour milk gradually | 1 to 2 minutes |
Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl we place the sifted all-purpose flour. We whisk thoroughly to remove any lumps. This step ensures our final cake has a light texture.
Fold In Nuts
With a rubber spatula we gently fold the chopped toasted pecans into the batter. We stir until the nuts are evenly distributed. Overmixing leads to a denser cake so we use a light hand.
Baking And Cooling
This final stage of our Franklin Nut Cake process ensures a tender crumb and a delightful nutty sweetness. We bake the cake at 350°F then we follow a precise cooling routine to lock in its flavor.
Bake
- Place the filled bundt pan in the center of a preheated oven set to 350°F
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
- Monitor the top to maintain a golden-brown appearance
| Oven Temperature | Bake Time |
|---|---|
| 350°F | 45 to 50 minutes |
Cool
- Carefully remove the cake from the oven and set it on a cooling rack
- Let it rest in the bundt pan for 10 minutes so the crumb stays moist
- Invert the pan onto the rack then gently lift it away from the cake
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing for the best texture and flavor
Serving Suggestions
We love to highlight the moist crumb and nutty aroma of our Franklin Nut Cake by pairing each warm slice with light toppings and side options. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- Slice the cake into thick wedges for a satisfying bite
- Add whipped cream to balance the cake’s sweetness
- Dust each piece with powdered sugar for a delicate finish
- Serve with hot tea or coffee for a cozy experience
| Pairing | Description |
|---|---|
| Whipped Cream | Adds airy texture that complements the cake’s rich flavor |
| Powdered Sugar | Contributes gentle sweetness and an appealing finish |
| Caramel Drizzle | Provides buttery notes that highlight the toasted pecans |
| Fresh Berries | Brings a bright tang to counter the warm spice in the cake batter |
Conclusion
We love how a simple fusion of nuts and warm spices can transform our kitchen into a cozy haven. There’s a sense of tradition in every slice that invites us to savor each crumb without rushing.
We hope you’ll allow this Franklin favorite to become part of your cherished moments at home. Whether served plain or topped with a sweet drizzle it’s always sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Franklin Nut Cake come from, and why is it so popular?
Franklin Nut Cake has its roots in Franklin, where home bakers fell in love with its nutty sweetness and moist crumb. The cozy aroma of toasted nuts and warm spices has kept it a cherished favorite for generations, bringing people together over its comforting flavor. This timeless delight remains popular for its simple preparation and satisfying taste, making it a go-to recipe for those seeking a cozy dessert.
What are the essential ingredients for Franklin Nut Cake?
You’ll need three cups of sifted all-purpose flour, two cups of sugar, one cup of softened unsalted butter, four large eggs, one cup of milk, and one and a half cups of chopped toasted pecans. Sifting helps keep the cake light, while toasted pecans add a warm, nutty crunch. Using these simple yet flavorful components ensures the cake remains moist and delicious.
Why is sifting the flour so important?
Sifting the flour helps remove any lumps and aerates it, creating a lighter, fluffier texture in the final cake. This extra step prevents dense spots and promotes consistent mixing with other ingredients. Properly sifted flour helps the Franklin Nut Cake maintain its moist crumb while still rising nicely in the oven, ensuring an even, tender bite in every slice.
How do I mix the batter for the best texture?
Begin by creaming softened butter and sugar until smooth. Then, blend in the eggs one at a time to avoid lumps. Gradually pour in the milk while mixing for an even consistency. Separately, whisk the sifted flour and fold it into the wet mixture, followed by gently folding in the toasted pecans. Avoid overmixing to keep that signature moist, tender crumb.
How long should I bake it, and how do I know it’s done?
Bake the Franklin Nut Cake in a 9-inch bundt pan at 350°F for about 45 to 50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready. Also, look for a golden-brown crust on top. Overbaking can dry the cake, so monitor it closely during the final few minutes.
What’s the best way to serve Franklin Nut Cake?
Let it cool completely, then slice and enjoy it with light toppings like whipped cream, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel. You can also add fresh berries for a bright, tangy contrast to the toasted nuts and warm spices. These simple additions enhance the cake’s cozy aroma, making each bite extra satisfying without overshadowing the nutty sweetness.